North Carolina Counts on Math (NCCOM): Designing a Shared K-5 Vision for Math (2026)

BEST NC, partnering with Watershed Advisors, convened the North Carolina Counts on Math (NCCOM) working group consisting of a cross-section of state and local mathematics educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to examine current conditions in K-5 mathematics and to identify opportunities for improvement.

The NCCOM Working Group and Advisory Group included representation from the North Carolina Governor’s Office, the NC House, NC Senate, NC State Board of Education, UNC System, NC Independent Colleges and Universities, NC DPI, teachers, district and school leaders, and various other stakeholders.

The Vision: Every North Carolina Student in grades K-5 will have access to rigorous, coherent, and engaging research-based mathematics instruction that builds the knowledge, confidence, and durable skills needed for immediate success in elementary math and future accomplishments in secondary math and the workforce.

Specifically:

• • Students will learn from well-prepared teachers and teacher-leaders equipped with standards-aligned, high-quality instructional materials, sustained professional learning that ensures effective implementation, and accessible student data.

• • Math learning experiences will emphasize rigor, integrating conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and the ability to apply mathematics in meaningful real-world contexts.

• • Learners’ needs will receive responsive standards and curriculum-aligned supports that empower both students and teachers to act on data, whether for intervention or enrichment.

• • Families and stakeholders will be meaningfully engaged as partners in students’ learning, equipped with accessible resources and clear communication to support learning beyond the classroom.

The Goal: North Carolina’s sustained commitment to this vision will establish strong mathematical foundations in the early grades, making the state a national leader